Pedro Martinez’s first rehab start for the Phillies’ Single-A ended after 1 1/3 innings, but still has to be considered a step in the right direction.

Martinez, pitching against the St. Lucie Mets, allowed one hit and had one strike out before the game was postponed due to rain. This was the first of what was expected to be three rehab starts before joining the defending World Champion Phillies. The team wants the 37-year-old ex-Mets pitcher to throw 90 pitches before calling him up.

Martinez signed with Philadelphia on July 14, but was immediately put on the disabled list with a minor shoulder strain.